Exercising Outdoors Has Added Benefits

It is pretty well-known that a healthy body and mind most often go hand in hand, and if you’re on the path to mental wellness then exercise is key.  Exercising outdoors has added benefits for your body and mind.  Physical activity does wonders for stress and anxiety but spending time in nature helps even more.

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Added Benefits of Sunshine

You were probably told as a child to go outside and get some sunshine.  Sunlight turns a chemical in your skin into active Vitamin D that your body can use.  Vitamin D is not found in many foods naturally, so getting outside and/or supplementing is important.  Of course, always check with your healthcare practitioner before starting any supplements.

Exercising and sunshine both increase your endorphins which can help ease depression and anxiety.  Just a short 10-15 minute walk outside on a coffee break can help boost your mood.

Exercising outdoors has more added benefits than just getting extra Vitamin D.  Breathing fresh air can help keep your blood pressure low and oxygen levels high, and can also help to improve your heart rate.  Taking your daily workout routine outdoors can be a healthier experience for both your body and mind.  A little fresh air goes a long way to help improve focus and keep anxiety away.  Working out outside will also keep you focused, whereas it is easy to be distracted when at home.

Set aside a time that you will honor as your workout time on a regular schedule.  Use that time to go outside to work out or exercise.  Focus on how you’re feeling both mentally and physically and take deep breaths.  This can help you focus on yourself healthily and positively, and will also help with stress, anxiety, and self-esteem.

Exercising Outdoors at Home

If you’re having a tough time finding a workout routine that you like, or that fits into your daily schedule, there are options out there.  Search online and you will get lists with ideas, you can find exercises or workout routines, and so much more!  Go explore new areas around where you live through hiking or jogging, you never know what you’ll discover!  Exploring like this can bring you confidence as you learn more about your area, and your limitations (or lack thereof).

Even going on a daily walk around your neighborhood is a great way to meet new people.  Even when you’re on your own, developing a healthy routine and getting the blood and oxygen flowing will help to get the stress levels lower.

Other options to get some exercise outside could also include swimming at your local public pool, horseback riding, skiing, canoeing, biking, or going to the beach.  If you have nearby facilities that allow these activities you should try some out.